According to AARP, the vast majority (87 percent) of those 65 and older want to remain in their home and community as they grow older. As more Americans from the Baby Boomer generation age into retirement, the need for help to “age in place” is rapidly growing. Our Benevilla Home Services program volunteers make a real difference in our community by helping older adults age in place, stay in their homes longer and remain independent.
The Benevilla Free Home Services program provides patrons with a little extra assistance to maintain their independence at home. Services are available short- or long-term to those with limited resources and options. Our volunteers assist with grocery shopping, transportation to medical appointments, phone pals and in-person wellness checks, emergency errands, light handyman services and helping with personal paperwork.
As one of our members stated “My Benevilla volunteer went above and beyond helping me today. After she took me to my doctor appointment, she took me to the store. She helped me shop, loaded the groceries, and helped me put them away. Afterwards she stayed and visited for a while. I truly enjoyed this day, and I cannot thank her enough!”
During 2022, Benevilla volunteers gave seniors 847 rides to medical appointments, made 1,020 grocery deliveries to homebound seniors, and provided more than 48,807 individual acts of service, including minor home maintenance, in-person visits and phone chats.
“Our generous volunteers allow us to offer these services vital to helping older adults in our community helping them age in place,” says Benevilla President and CEO Joanne Thomson. “Without them, we would not be able to serve as many people as we do.”
As one of our long-time volunteers stated, “Volunteering is good for the soul.” Volunteering can provide opportunities to learn new skills, gain experience in different fields, and develop personally and professionally. It can also provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Volunteering can help individuals build relationships and networks with other volunteers, community members, and organizations. Studies have shown that volunteering can lead to improved mental and physical health outcomes, including reduced stress, improved mood, and increased physical activity.
Volunteers are the hearts and hands of Benevilla. The efforts of each one of our staff are multiplied by the support of generous volunteers. Together we form a safety net of neighbors helping neighbors. Volunteer opportunities to meet your specific needs can be found throughout Benevilla. Beyond our Home Services program, you can assist in our Benefitness Adaptive Gym serving those in our community with different abilities, special considerations, and ongoing clinical needs. Or you can become involved in our Life Enrichment Adult Day Care programs or administrative offices. The choice is yours.
Those interested in volunteering with Benevilla should visit the agency website, www.Benevilla.org or call 623-584-4999.